Simpson takes 12th at Wartburg

WAVERLY, Iowa – Zach Hale and Andy Hutchins helped the Simpson men's golf team shoot a 634 at the Wartburg Spring Invitational over the weekend, placing 12th of 18 teams.

Kirkwood Community College shot 596 to win the tournament, held at Centennial Oaks Golf Course. Hastings (603) came in second and St. Olaf (607) third. Wartburg's Jeremy Carper earned medalist honors after shooting a 1-under 143, topping the field of 103 golfers.

Hale had the team's low round for the weekend when he opened with a even-72 on Saturday, leaving him only three strokes off the lead. But windy conditions proved to be a challenge for all golfers on Sunday. Hale finished with an 83, giving him an 11-over 155 on the weekend to put him in a tie for 32nd.

Hutchins came through with Simpson's low round on Sunday, firing an 8-over 80 despite the tough conditions. Like Hale, he tied for 32nd with a 155 after his opening round 75.

Conner Juilfs had a steady weekend, shooting 80 and 81 for a 36-hole total of 161 on the weekend, tied for 55th overall.

Joe Hupp was able to cut out a stroke from Saturday's first round, finishing at 163 (82-81) to tie for 60th.

Matt Haley rounded out the lineup with a 171 (85-86), tying for 86th.

Simpson's next action will be the Buena Vista Invitational on April 20-21.